Raiders 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Reloading the offensive line and more

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "OUR FUTURE IS NOW" for the Oakland Raiders during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays the text "OUR FUTURE IS NOW" for the Oakland Raiders during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 06: Kalon Barnes #DB03 of the Baylor Bears runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine. Raiders. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

Raiders 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Reloading the offensive line and more

. Cornerback. Bears . Kalon Barnes. 126. player. 860

The Raiders’ secondary, particularly at corner, got some help during the offseason in the shape of Rock Ya-Sin. However, the team is counting on Trayvon Mullen’s return to form in 2022. Basically, Las Vegas would benefit from adding another corner in a few days, so Kalon Barnes with the 126th pick works out.

The legendary Al Davis loved speed and Barnes is a prototypical pick that he would’ve made just based on that trait alone; Barnes ran a 4.23 time in his NFL Combine 40-yard dash. While he’s far from perfect in coverage, Barnes’ natural velocity and quickness warrant a look.

Barnes’ form, awareness, and on-field IQ provide a solid foundation for a future NFL cornerback. He has a notable backpedal and isn’t afraid of playing his receiver aggressively. The best way to describe Barnes would be to call him a wide receiver that knows how to play defense.

Barnes is a playmaker on both defense and special teams due to his hands, vision, and that rare trait of being able to take it to third gear when he has the ball.

At six feet and 180-plus pounds, Barnes has the size to excel in the zone and would benefit from playing as a depth piece as he refines his game.